How Not to Write a Novel: Confessions of a Mid-List Author

Not your typical "How To" writer's book, as the title implies, but more like a guided tour of the often harsh realities that are part of being a non-bestselling author. Armstrong's eloquent voice combined with blunt honesty and concise details make this an important book for anyone who has ever written a novel, or has considered doing so with illusions of bestseller lists, packed-house book signings, and full-size window... Read Full Review

Doesn't tell you how to write, how boring would that be, tells you that your on the right track. Helps you to understand that what your probably doing is correct and regular, and that you can make it.

How Not To Write A Novel is more about your mentality while writing your "best seller", than helpful tips on the don'ts.However he does provide Tips and Summaries at the end of each chapter which are insightful.This book should be read by all aspiring to be published; it's the reality of the book business (and make no mistake, it is a business above all else). Mr. Armstrong takes the rose colored glasses off your eyes to let... Read Full Review

How not to write a novel - David Armstrong (2003) (published by Alison and Busby Ltd ISBN 0 7490 0680 3)This is a useful, and refreshingly honest, book on the subject: 'Why you shouldn't try to write a novel.' The author of this book gave up a remunerative teaching career, thinking he could become a successful writer instead, and fell into a lot of pitfalls thereafter that he didn't anticipate beforehand. With the benefit... Read Full Review